In a game where neither team could get a cushion, the Norwich Merchants escaped with a 3-2 victory over the Wellesley Applejacks.

Neither team gained more than a one-goal lead, and Todd Poirier's goal in the third period proved to be the difference maker.

Norwich's penalty kill excelled, as the Merchants gave up zero goals despite allowing seven power plays.

Norwich was led by Poirier, who grabbed one goal. Poirier scored 3:32 into the third period to make the score 3-2 Norwich. Taylor Gosset assisted on the tally.

The Merchants stifled Wellesley's power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man.

Norwich also got points from Drake Morrell, who also had one goal and one assist. Jordan Gillis also scored for Norwich. More assists for Norwich came via Braeden Shand and Jesse Szabo, who each chipped in one.

The Applejacks excelled on the penalty kill, not giving up a single goal in three chances. Wellesley was held below its usual level of production. The Applejacks put an average of 4.9 pucks into the net per game.

Wellesley was helped by Brett MacDonald, who registered one goal. MacDonald scored short handed 10:08 into the first period to make the score 1-0 Wellesley. The Applejacks played down a man on Jake Ariss's tripping. Reid Denstedt provided the assist. Wellesley also got a goal from Cal Jefferies as well. In addition, Wellesley received assists from Taylor Doering, Blake Hetherington, and Justin Lebold, who contributed one a piece.

Zac Easveld made 23 saves for Norwich on 25 shots. The Merchants incurred 14 minutes in penalty time with seven minors. Josh Heer rejected 24 shots on goal for Wellesley. The Applejacks incurred six minutes in penalty time with three minors.